Red-bellied Woodpecker

What a beauty! (enlarge)

He makes his appearance at our bird feeder every year, and becomes a regular visitor throughout the winter, and yet I am always astonished to see him. It’s wonderful to forget–and then suddenly see him–and remember!

The more colorful species always seem more beautiful in the drabness of winter or against the background of deep snow than they do in the summer. And more unexpected! When the Goldfinches and Cardinals arrive, they are stunning.